Visitation Information

Marilyn Darlene Zellers (nee Kasper)

Passed away on April 10, 2025

Marilyn Darlene Zellers, age 94, passed away peacefully on April 10, 2025, at the home of her son and daughter-in-law in Westfield, Indiana, surrounded by family and love.

Born in Hammond, Indiana, to Stanley and Irene (Kmiec) Kasper, Marilyn graduated from Catholic Central High School (now Bishop Noll Institute) in 1948. In 1951, she married her high school sweetheart, John “Pete” Zellers. The couple built a life together in St. John, Indiana, where they raised two children. Their marriage spanned 37 years until Pete’s passing in 1988.

Throughout her life, Marilyn was known for her many talents and deep devotion to family. In her early years, she worked as an office professional and fashion model in Chicago. She later became active in the community, serving as a seamstress and a member of the St. Margaret’s Junior Association.  She was also a reporter for the Hammond (now NWI) Times, writing human interest stories and covering local school board meetings. 

Family was always Marilyn’s top priority. She lovingly maintained her home in rural St. John while raising her children and supporting their dreams. After Pete’s passing, she found joy again in a meaningful companionship with Tony Varchetto. The two shared over 20 wonderful years together, enjoying travel, fine dining, and time with loved ones.

In 2008, Marilyn moved to the northern Indianapolis suburbs to be closer to family. She spent her final years in the care of her son John and daughter-in-law Angie, with whom she shared many cherished memories.

Marilyn is preceded in death by her husband Pete, her daughter Elizabeth Ann (Zellers) Puhek, and her parents. She is survived by her brother Donald Kasper of St. John, IN; her son John F. Zellers, Jr. and daughter-in-law Angela (Williams) of Westfield, IN; her former son-in-law Kevin Puhek, Sr.; grandchildren Kevin Scott Puhek, Jr. (Candi), Sarah Heisler, Stephanie Franco (David), Dylan Zellers, Kyle Zellers, and Ava Zellers; and great-grandchildren Scott, Evelyn, Curtis, Chandler, Amelia, Averie, and Eian. She also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.

A remembrance service will be held at Elmwood Funeral Chapel, 11300 W. 97th Ln, St. John, IN, on Saturday, April 26, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Burial will follow at Chapel Lawn Memorial Gardens, and a reception will be held around 2 p.m. at Teibel’s Family Restaurant in Schererville.

Marilyn’s love, strength, and grace touched the lives of many. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.

In lieu of flowers, donations to Careline Hospice Foundation, 600 E Carmel Dr, Suite 144, Carmel, IN 46032 will be graciously accepted.